Thai cave rescue almost ended in disaster, after main pump reportedly failed

To get the team out, experts had to guide them, diving through the cave’s dark, tight and twisting passages.

On Wednesday, Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha thanked people involved in the rescue.

In a nationally televised address, Prayuth said that the government’s efforts, the assistance of people in Thailand and abroad, and the outpouring of moral support made the mission a success. He also acknowledged the loss of a former navy SEAL, Saman Kunan, who died last week while replenishing air tanks inside the cave.

“His honor, sacrifice and legacy will forever be in our hearts,” Prayuth said.

Fox News’ Jeff Paul and Melissa Chrise in Chiang Rai, Thailand, and The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Travis Fedschun is a reporter for FoxNews.com. Follow him on Twitter @travfed